24/07/2025
PROF. SHEDRACH GAYA BEST APPOINTED 6th VICE-CHANCELLOR OF PLATEAU STATE UNIVERSITY, BOKKOS.
In a significant development for higher education in Plateau State, the Executive Governor and Visitor to Plateau State University (PLASU), Bokkos, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has approved the appointment of Professor Shedrack Gaya Best as the 6th substantive Vice-Chancellor of the institution.
The appointment, which takes effect from Thursday, 24th July, 2025, marks a new chapter for the fast-rising university, located in the heart of Bokkos. Professor Best, a veteran academic and conflict resolution expert, will serve a single tenure of five years, as confirmed in an official statement from the Office of the Registrar.
Professor Best brings with him over 33 years of academic and administrative experience, having served as a professor of International Relations and Peace Building. His academic journey and leadership have been deeply rooted in conflict transformation, policy analysis, and peace initiatives both nationally and internationally.
Beyond the classroom, Professor Best is no stranger to public service. He previously served as Secretary to the Government of Plateau State between 2011 and 2015, where he played a pivotal role in mediating peace processes during a turbulent period in the state’s history.
His scholarly contributions and leadership in conflict-sensitive research have earned him a reputable standing across African academic and diplomatic circles.
The appointment of Professor Best is seen by many as a strategic move to reposition Plateau State University as a hub for research excellence, peace studies, and development-focused education. Stakeholders across the academic community have lauded the decision, calling it a “timely and visionary choice” capable of steering the university towards greater national and international relevance.
His tenure is expected to focus on institutional reforms, enhanced research output, international collaborations, and infrastructural development, as the university continues to expand its academic programmes and student intake.
Professor Best is married to Professor Kachollom Shedrack Best, herself a distinguished academic, and they are blessed with four children. The academic couple is widely admired for their intellectual contributions and mentorship in Nigerian higher education.
As Plateau State University enters this new era under the leadership of Professor Shedrack Gaya Best, hopes are high among students, staff, and education advocates. With a proven record of excellence and service, all eyes are now on the incoming Vice-Chancellor to deliver transformational leadership that will shape the university's future and legacy.